The Air Jordan 1 High ’85 “UNC Metallic” PE Resurfaces: A Rare Glimpse into Jordan History. One of the rarest Air Jordans ever just reemerged, and it’s pure Tar Heel nostalgia. Sneaker collectors, take a deep breath. The elusive Air Jordan 1 High ’85 “UNC Metallic” PE has made a surprise return to the spotlight, thanks to a detailed reveal by English Sole. For years, this pair lived in near-mythical status, whispered about in collector circles and rarely seen in public. Now, we get an up-close look at one of the rarest Player Exclusives from the Jordan archive.
Originally created in 1985, this UNC-themed pair was never released to the public and is believed to have had a production run of fewer than 25 pairs. Designed as a nod to Michael Jordan’s college days at the University of North Carolina, the shoe features a crisp white leather upper, accented by bold, metallic University Blue hits across the Swoosh, collar, and outsole. Every detail speaks to Jordan’s legacy in Chapel Hill, from the tongue branding to the subtle UNC blue inner lining, the sneaker is drenched in Tar Heel pride. It’s a time capsule from MJ’s transition from NCAA legend to NBA icon.
While it sadly won’t be hitting retail shelves, its appearance alongside the also-unreleased Chicago ’85 PE has sparked renewed excitement for archival gems. The timing seems intentional, as Jordan Brand continues to lean deeper into its rich history with more faithful retros and unreleased samples resurfacing. Collectors may never touch this pair, but just seeing it in the spotlight again fuels the imagination. It’s more than just leather and laces—it’s a piece of basketball and sneaker history that reminds us where greatness began.
The Air Jordan 1 High ’85 “UNC Metallic” PE is a visual love letter to Jordan’s roots, one of the rarest, most exclusive tributes to His Airness that few will ever hold, but all can admire.
